Let's talk about Real Estate.

05/25/2024

Pay attention to certain marketing words and phrases. Here is a glossary of terms for your reference when reviewing ads.

Scanning the real estate ads, astute readers will notice a lot of the same phrases popping up. That’s not an accident. Like every good sales rep, real estate agents utilize certain words and phrases to make their sales pitch. Here’s what the terms could mean. Cozy affixed to anything usually equ...

05/24/2024

Wondering if a tiny home would be just right or a big mistake? Read all about it here.

The “Tiny House” movement is certainly getting a lot of publicity these days, and let’s face it, those cute-as-a-button homes offering the prospect of no mortgage and a smaller environmental impact are pretty tempting. But are you ready to live in 500 square feet — or less? Letting go. Livin...

05/22/2024

You just found out your mortgage was sold to another company. Learn what happens next when a new entity takes over your loan.

It seemed like the ink was barely dry on your closing papers when you received notice that your mortgage had been sold to another company. While startling, it won’t change the terms of your loan. Here’s what you need to know. Why do mortgage companies sell mortgages? Mortgage companies lend mone...

05/20/2024

Want to transform your home’s entryway from underwhelming to wow? Here’s how.

Vestibule, foyer, entryway — this space goes by many names and serves a number of purposes. It welcomes guests to your home, tells the story of the people who live there, and provides much-needed storage. With so much to do in a limited space, designing a great entryway can be challenging. Check o...

05/18/2024

Looking for home design inspiration? Check out these five sources.

If it’s time to put your individual stamp on your next house or home renovation, let’s look at the best places to go for inspiration. Some of them require a little leg work while others can be check out from the comfort of your couch. A custom builder. Get in touch with quality custom builders [...

05/17/2024

What every landlord needs to know when it’s time for an unruly resident to go.

Evicting a tenant from a rental property is one of the most unpleasant tasks a landlord faces. Consult the laws in your state carefully, then proceed professionally and courteously. Here is a brief summary from the landlord’s perspective. Three types of termination. Most states recognize three typ...

05/15/2024

Here’s how to build great neighborhood relationships that pay real dividends.

Ask homeowners what builds value in their homes and they likely will name things like kitchen upgrades, a new deck or other hard assets. What may not come to mind as readily is the value of having great neighbors. Yet having a harmonious neighborhood pays off in personal satisfaction and ultimately....

05/13/2024

Are you in the process of selling your home with pets living in the house? Here is how to clean up those accidents quickly!

Pet accidents are inevitable, reminding us all of the sacrifices and responsibilities that come with pet ownership. Hurry, grab some supplies and let’s get that mess cleaned up and the odor removed. Soiled carpets. Quick removal of pet waste is essential. Left to dry, stain and odor removal become...

05/12/2024

Wishing all the Moms out there a Happy Mother's Day!

05/11/2024

Here is a quick review of qualification guidelines for government-assisted mortgages.

When searching out home-financing opportunities, it’s worthwhile to see if you qualify for government programs that offer attractive terms. The loans are usually administered through a private mortgage lender, but are insured by the federal government against loss due to borrower default. Here’s...

05/10/2024

Ready to cut the cord on cable or satellite TV? Check out the multitude of apps that provide online movies and TV shows at a significantly lower cost.

If you’re thinking about “cutting the cord” on satellite or cable TV, the alternatives are plentiful and available at a fraction of the cost.

05/08/2024

Your DIY projects will be much more successful when you use the right tools. Here's what you need.

Even the simplest household fix-it job goes more smoothly with the right tool in hand. Here’s a quick guide to what the home toolbox should contain.